Thread: does a latex prop need to be sealed?

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Help please!!

I searched around and did not find anything close to what I need to know. If one makes a paper mache prop, and coats it with latex and cotton and more latex, does it also need to be water sealed?

Thank you in advance.

ive never made one, so I don't know for certain, but I would think so. IF nothing else i think it would be an added measure of protection for your creation.

I generally paint or stain over any props i do that use latex. Last year I made a pig head and thought the final paint was too bright so i added an extra layer or two of latex. Now when it rains it takes on a grey runny appearance which looks cool and goes away when it dries but may be damaging the prop.

a protective coat of sealer wont hurt. It might save the paint job if it gets bumped. The paint will be protected.

Latex is a polymer based paint (like acrylic) it turns into a plastic once dried. So technically it's waterproof if the paint surface is solid. BUT the paint will be subject to UV and cold/heat damage over time and a sealant would protect the paint from color fade and cracking...

Me personally, I don't seal anything that has a good coating of latex already. I figure on repainting every 4-5 years just to update anyway and it's an extra expense for me that I don't think is necessary. BUT I also don't display most of my stuff but a few nights a year...

OMG I live in latex. Heat is a big no-no for it... cold not so much as I've noticed. It will dull quickly if your wanting to keep a glossy sheen. To keep the closs I use to seal artist's acrylic gloss medium from any fine arts supply isle. It's a bit pricey, but a little goes a long way.

thanks guys!! really great tips.